About Clean Water Howard

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Stream

We all rely on Howard County’s stormwater management system. When we’re home or out and about, every time we drive on streets, park in parking lots, or use buildings, the water that runs off these surfaces and rooftops has to go somewhere—and we trust that it will be properly treated and managed. Like the water utility that maintains our drinking and waste water treatment, Howard County’s stormwater management program ensures that stormwater is treated and managed, and also maintains our storm drains, underground pipes, ponds, and streams.

The Chesapeake Bay and Maryland’s streams and rivers continue to suffer from significant water quality problems caused by stormwater. To help, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) have increased the stormwater management requirements for local governments. In order to improve water quality and comply with our permits, Howard County must increase activity and funding for our stormwater program.